What action should a supervisor take if an employee refuses to follow safety protocols?

A supervisor should promptly address the issue when an employee refuses to follow safety protocols because immediate action reinforces the importance of safety within the workplace. By addressing the behavior, the supervisor can understand the reasons behind the refusal, whether it stems from a lack of understanding, training needs, or deliberate non-compliance.

Offering additional training can help clarify the necessary protocols and enhance the employee's comprehension and adherence. If the refusal is intentional, implementing appropriate consequences sends a clear message about the seriousness of safety violations. This proactive approach not only helps resolve the specific issue but also contributes to creating a culture of safety where compliance is expected and valued.

Additionally, ignoring the behavior or merely monitoring without intervention can lead to further issues, as it may demoralize other employees who are following the protocols. Reporting to higher management may be appropriate in some severe cases, but it usually should be a later step after addressing the behavior directly and attempting to resolve the situation at the supervisor level.